Mufti May Claim Ecclesiastic Immunity; Refuse to Testify in Public

November 24, 1929

Jerusalem (Nov. 22)

It is learned here today that the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and head of the Moslem Supreme Council may claim ecclesiastical immunity against appearing before public sittings of the Inquiry Commission and against being publicly cross-examined by counsel. If the Mufti’s attitude is upheld by the Commission he will be heard in the privacy of his own apartment. His objections to a public session are said to be based on old Turkish law. It is expected that Chief Rabbi Kook will undoubtedly claim a similar privilege.